Part One of the Chivas USA v. LA Galaxy in-stadium rivalry kicks off this Saturday evening at The Home Depot Center, with three points and SoCal bragging rights on the line for each side. And while the Goats haven't beaten Landon Donovan and company since late 2007, this season promises to bring with it a tide of change for the Red and White. Here are four reasons why Chivas USA will beat Los Angeles on Saturday night.
Home Field Advantage
Yes, both teams play at The Home Depot Center, but Saturday's match is technically Chivas USA's, which means the HDC stands will be full of screaming Mexicans in red and white shirts. And make no mistake about it; there is no team that the Goats' supporters hate more than LA. Look for plenty of hostility thrown the Galaxy's way.
Justin Braun
Few things do more for a striker's confidence than nabbing a hat trick. Braun is coming off bagging three goals in an away game against the best squad in MLS' Eastern Conference last weekend, and will be surely firing on all cylinders against LA on Saturday. As an extra incentive to find the back of the net, Braun has never beaten the Galaxy. Ever.
Momentum
Chivas USA has lost just once in their last seven games, with the only defeat coming at the hands of Real Salt Lake in Utah (a game that saw the Goats play 60 minutes with just nine men). The squad is bristling with confidence and ready to take on the world.
Robin Fraser
The last Chivas USA coach to get a victory against LA was Preki. But Fraser has brought a new mindset to the Red-and-White, one of discipline and regiment. If anything can topple Bruce Arena's squad of hotshots, it's Fraser's blue-collar work ethic and high pressure.